RM200 Mln Allocated For Maintenance Of RIBI Since 2023 - Nga

KLUANG, June 26 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) has allocated RM200 million to implement the Non-Muslim Houses of Worship (RIBI) Maintenance Initiative nationwide for a period of four years starting in 2023.

Minister Nga Kor Ming said the initiative covers maintenance work on churches, gurdwaras, Hindu temples, temples and other associations which is a clear proof of the MADANI government's commitment to be fair to all levels of society.

He said that so far, 1,478 applications have been received through the e-RIBI System with a total value of more than RM279 million, thus reflecting the community's ongoing need for the maintenance and improvement of the religious premises involved.

"With the spirit of no one left behind, no one marginalised, we want to ensure that in our efforts to rebuild our country (regardless of) Malay, Chinese, Indian, Iban, Kadazan-Dusun, we as a family are caring, respectful and loving towards each other.

"When there are those who try to build walls, we build bridges. There are those who foster division, we foster unity. This is an important message so that we maintain the stability of our country so that the Ringgit can continue to strengthen, investors can come in, and job opportunities can be created for the benefit of all of us,” he said.

He said this at a press conference after attending the Johor State RIBI Maintenance Initiative Allocation Handover Ceremony at the Che Luan Khor Morality Uplifting Society, Kluang, in conjunction with KPKT 4.0 Sentuhan Kasih Program 2026 tour series in the state.

At the ceremony, Nga also announced an allocation of RM3.14 million specifically to benefit 27 RIBIs in Johor this year to ensure the comfort and safety of the institutions.

The allocation, he said, will be used to carry out renovation, maintenance, new construction and emergency repairs of RIBIs throughout Johor to ensure that the facilities can continue to function properly for the benefit of the community.

“The MADANI government does not see development through the lens race or religion alone, but rather ensuring that every community benefits fairly and equitably to strengthen national unity. The diversity that is the identity of Malaysia must continue to be preserved and celebrated as a strength that unites the people," he said.

To ensure the transparency and effectiveness of the implementation of this initiative, he said KPKT would continue to monitor every approved project professionally, efficiently and transparently so that government allocations are channeled to truly deserving organisations.

Meanwhile, Nga informed that Johor has received a total allocation worth RM18.75 million since 2023 until May 20, 2026 which directly benefits 154 RIBIs.

-- BERNAMA